Introduction

The escalating proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, for both legitimate and illicit purposes, has introduced a complex and rapidly evolving threat to national security, critical infrastructure, public events, and privacy. From commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) drones modified for harmful intent to sophisticated state-sponsored reconnaissance platforms, the potential for unauthorized drone activity is a growing concern. Detecting, tracking, identifying, and mitigating these airborne threats, often referred to as "low, slow, and small" (LSS) targets, requires a specialized and multi-layered defense approach. This necessitates a deep understanding of cutting-edge Counter-UAS (C-UAS) technologies and robust operational strategies. This essential training course focuses on Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Technologies & Strategies, equipping professionals with the critical knowledge and practical skills to effectively safeguard airspace against evolving drone threats.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of the C-UAS ecosystem. Participants will delve into the various drone detection technologies, including radar, radio frequency (RF) analysis, acoustic sensors, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, learning their operational principles, capabilities, and limitations. We will explore a spectrum of drone mitigation techniques, ranging from non-kinetic (e.g., jamming, spoofing, cyber takeover) to kinetic solutions (e.g., net capture, directed energy weapons), emphasizing their effective and lawful deployment. By mastering the integration of these advanced C-UAS technologies into a cohesive defense strategy and understanding the associated regulatory and ethical frameworks, you will be prepared to design, implement, and manage robust counter-drone solutions for diverse operational environments, ensuring comprehensive airspace security.

Target Audience

• Security Personnel & Managers
• Law Enforcement & Public Safety Agencies
• Military & Defense Officials
• Critical Infrastructure Operators
• Aviation Security Professionals
• Event Security Planners
• Systems Integrators & Engineers
• Government & Policy Makers

Course Objectives

• Understand the evolving UAS threat landscape and its implications for security.
• Identify and classify different types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and their capabilities.
• Comprehend the principles and limitations of various drone detection technologies.
• Learn about tracking and identification techniques for unauthorized drones.
• Distinguish between kinetic and non-kinetic drone mitigation strategies.
• Master the operational deployment and limitations of drone jamming and spoofing technologies.
• Explore cyber and electronic warfare methods for countering drones.
• Understand the importance of sensor fusion for enhanced C-UAS accuracy.
• Develop effective C-UAS incident response and recovery protocols.
• Analyze the legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks governing C-UAS operations.
• Design and integrate multi-layered C-UAS systems for comprehensive airspace defense.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: The UAS Threat Landscape

• Evolution of drone technology and its dual-use potential.
• Classification of unmanned aerial systems (size, capability, intent).
• Case studies of malicious drone incidents (e.g., espionage, contraband delivery, attacks).
• Vulnerabilities of civilian drones and ease of modification for illicit use.
• Future trends in drone threats, including swarms and autonomous drones.

Module 2: C-UAS Detection Technologies: Part 1 - RF & Acoustic

• Principles of Radio Frequency (RF) detection for drones and controllers.
• Identifying drone communication protocols and signatures.
• RF spectrum analysis and signal intelligence (SIGINT).
• Advantages and limitations of RF detection systems (e.g., range, interference).
• Acoustic detection of drones: principles and environmental factors.

Module 3: C-UAS Detection Technologies: Part 2 - Radar & EO/IR

• Radar-based drone detection: specialized radars for small targets.
• Understanding radar signatures of drones and clutter mitigation.
• Electro-Optical (EO) and Infrared (IR) cameras for visual and thermal tracking.
• Thermal imaging for drone detection in low-light/night conditions.
• Integration of multi-sensor platforms for enhanced detection.

Module 4: Drone Tracking and Identification

• Techniques for real-time tracking of detected drones.
• Visual tracking algorithms and target lock-on capabilities.
• Utilizing AI/ML for automated drone classification and identification.
• Behavioral analysis of UAVs to determine intent.
• Challenges in identifying low-observable or autonomous drones.

Module 5: Non-Kinetic Mitigation: Jamming & Spoofing

• Principles of RF jamming for drone control and GNSS signals.
• Types of jammers: directional, omni-directional, wideband, narrow band.
• GNSS (GPS) spoofing techniques to mislead drone navigation.
• Effects of jamming and spoofing on drone behavior.
• Legal and safety considerations of RF interference.

Module 6: Non-Kinetic Mitigation: Cyber & Directed Energy

• Cyber takeover methods for unauthorized drone control.
• Exploiting software vulnerabilities in drone firmware or communication links.
• Principles of Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) (e.g., high-power microwaves, lasers).
• Advantages and challenges of DEW for drone neutralization.
• Ethical and regulatory aspects of cyber and DEW countermeasures.

Module 7: Kinetic Mitigation Strategies

• Overview of hard-kill solutions for drone interdiction.
• Netting systems: drone-mounted nets, ground-launched nets.
• Physical interception drones (interceptor UAVs).
• Projectile-based systems (e.g., smart bullets, anti-drone missiles).
• Considerations for collateral damage and debris management.

Module 8: Sensor Fusion and Command & Control (C2)

• Importance of integrating multiple detection technologies for comprehensive coverage.
• Data fusion algorithms for combining disparate sensor inputs.
• Developing a unified C-UAS command and control (C2) system.
• Situational awareness dashboards for real-time threat monitoring.
• Decision-making frameworks for C-UAS response.

Module 9: C-UAS System Integration & Deployment

• Planning and site selection for C-UAS system deployment.
• Integrating C-UAS solutions with existing security infrastructure.
• Scalability of C-UAS systems for different protection areas.
• Calibration, testing, and maintenance of C-UAS technologies.
• Power management and redundancy for continuous operation.

Module 10: Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

• Current laws and regulations regarding drone use and C-UAS operations.
• Airspace restrictions and unauthorized drone activity laws.
• Legal authority for C-UAS engagement.
• Privacy implications of drone detection and mitigation.
• International perspectives and harmonization efforts in C-UAS regulations.

Module 11: C-UAS Incident Response and Risk Management

• Developing a comprehensive C-UAS incident response plan.
• Protocols for identification, tracking, assessment, and mitigation of suspicious drones.
• Establishing clear communication channels and roles during drone incidents.
• Post-incident analysis, forensics, and lessons learned.
• Risk assessment methodologies for UAS threats to specific assets.

Module 12: Case Studies and Real-World Scenarios

• Analysis of successful C-UAS deployments in various settings (e.g., airports, stadiums, military bases).
• Review of challenging drone incursions and the lessons learned.
• Practical exercises and simulated scenarios for C-UAS decision-making.
• Adapting C-UAS strategies to diverse operational environments.
• Discussion of emerging C-UAS challenges from evolving drone capabilities.

Module 13: Future of C-UAS Technologies

• Advancements in AI and machine learning for automated drone threat recognition.
• Swarm vs. counter-swarm tactics and technologies.
• Interoperability and standardization in C-UAS systems.
• The role of 5G/6G in enhancing C-UAS communication and data processing.
• Next-generation mitigation techniques and research frontiers in counter-drone warfare.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.